Title

Perceptual And Cognitive Skill Development In Soccer: The Multidimensional Nature Of Expert Performance

Keywords

Anticipation; Memory recall; Situational probabilities; Visual function

Abstract

This study examined the relative contribution of visual, perceptual, and cognitive skills to the development of expertise in soccer. Elite and sub-elite players, ranging in age from 9 to 17 years, were assessed using a multidimensional battery of tests. Four aspects of visual function were measured: static and dynamic visual acuity; stereoscopic depth sensitivity; and peripheral awareness. Perceptual and cognitive skills were assessed via the use of situational probabilities, as well as tests of anticipation and memory recall. Stepwise discriminant analyses revealed that the tests of visual function did not consistently discriminate between skill groups at any age. Tests of anticipatory performance and use of situational probabilities were the best in discriminating across skill groups. Memory recall of structured patterns of play was most predictive of age. As early as age 9, elite soccer players demonstrated superior perceptual and cognitive skills when compared to their sub-elite counterparts. Implications for training perceptual and cognitive skill in sport are discussed.

Publication Date

1-1-2003

Publication Title

Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology

Volume

25

Issue

1

Number of Pages

93-111

Document Type

Article

Personal Identifier

scopus

DOI Link

https://doi.org/10.1123/jsep.25.1.93

Socpus ID

0041670868 (Scopus)

Source API URL

https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0041670868

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